Thursday, April 23, 2009

I recently visited Tom's blog and read about his daughter playing piano in a competition. I wonder aloud, how does he do that?

I recently bought the Yamaha YPG-635 along with the Soft Mozart piano learning software and hooked it all up to try and teach my kids piano. At first it started working marvelously. The kids love Soft Mozart, and it really does get the learning notes and rhythms concept into them pretty good. What it can't do, is get them to practice everyday.

They were doing really, pretty well until springtime came. Now, when they get home, all they want to do is play outside. I just need them to practice for a little while to help them progress. Playing music stimulates parts of the brain that otherwise remain dormant. During moments of melancholy it can bring a soothing friend, during moments of elation, it can share with you. Music can be the place you can turn to when there is nobody else to turn to.

I want my kids to understand that, I think. But, I don't want to 'pressure' them into it, but rather help them enjoy it as I've enjoyed it. Also, learning a musical instrument brings all sorts of mastery and confidence. But not the type of false confidence so often encountered and encouraged through the PMA movement of schools today.

Musical mastery provides a real positive attitude, and a real sense of empowerment, creativity and self worth. Somehow, I must find ways to encourage my children to practice more. Any ideas? Send them my way!

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About Me

I grew up in St. George Utah and now live in Leuven - Belgium.
I develop software and dabble in entrepreneurship. I'm pretty good at software, I'm learning a lot in the school of experience about entrepreneurship. I dream of crafting an idea that will give me more financial independence.
Best of all, I'm a husband and dad of 3.